PhD Autonomy Engineer Intern - Deep Learning / Computer Vision, 2027

First Roles; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

Skydio in San Mateo, CA is seeking a PhD Autonomy Engineer Intern to advance our autonomous drone technology. You will pair with core engineers and own a project that meaningfully advances our capabilities.

You will prototype new approaches in C++/Python, work on computer vision, deep learning, motion planning, and embedded software, and help turn research into real products in a fast-paced team. This internship offers hands-on impact, mentorship from leading researchers, and a pathway to future

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in math, theory, and software development.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for CV, DL, motion planning, or related areas.
• Solid software engineering with clean, well-architected code.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Enable rapid research and development of intelligent autonomous systems.
• Research, prototype, and assess feasibility of new approaches.
• Implement new features that unlock advanced capabilities for users.
• Characterize and quantify performance of core software/hardware components.

Skills

C++

Python

Computer vision

Deep learning

Motion planning

Dynamics and controls

3D graphics

Embedded software

Distributed systems

Mobile

Education

PhD candidate in a relevant field

Job description

# PhD Autonomy Engineer Intern - Deep Learning / Computer Vision, 2027Internship Live nowSan Mateo, CAPosted October 25, 2026Last seen at Skydio on October 26, 2026.FirstRoles never charges new grads or interns to apply.## About this roleSkydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors https://www.skydio.com/solutions/energy-and-utilities to first responders https://www.skydio.com/solutions/public-safety, soldiers in battlefield scenarios https://www.skydio.com/solutions/national-security/tactical-isr, and beyond https://www.skydio.com/solutions.About the role:The core of our system is the computer vision algorithms that allow drones to understand the world around them. You will architect and implement the algorithms that run on every drone powered by Skydio as part of a world class computer vision team with researchers who have pushed the state of the art in academia and industry.As a PhD Research Intern, you will be paired up with one or more members of our core software development team, assuming direct ownership of a project that meaningfully advances the capabilities of our team and products.If you have a strong foundation in math, theory, and software development with relevant research and you are interested in directly contributing to the development of the next generation of autonomy algorithms and pushing them into real products, we would love to hear from you.How you'll make an impact:- Enable rapid research and development of intelligent systems with advanced autonomous capabilities beyond anything that exists in the world today- Research, prototype, and generally assess the feasibility of new approaches- Imagine and then implement new features that unlock magic for our users- Characterize and quantify the performance of core components of the software and hardware stackWhat makes you a strong fit:- High proficiency in C++ and/or Python- Demonstrated enthusiasm for one or more of the following: computer vision, deep learning, motion planning, dynamics and controls, 3D graphics, embedded software/firmware, distributed systems, tools/infrastructure, mobile- Solid software engineering foundation and a commitment to writing clean, well-architected code- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, small team environmentCompensation Range: The hourly rate for this position is $47/hr for Undergrad, $53/hr for Masters, and $70/hr for PhD students\\*. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. In addition to base salary, Skydio full-time employees are eligible to enroll in our benefit plans and take advantage of a variety of incentives and stipends.\\*For some positions the pay may be dependent upon the individual's regional location.#LI-DK1At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/